Niels Albert’s run of fine form in the current cyclocross season has suffered an unwelcome disruption, with the Belgian suffering a bad crash while out training. The BKCP-Powerplus rider is reported as being hit by a car and has broken a bone in his wrist.
Albert is set to be sidelined for at least a few weeks, although he has over two months before the world championships in Koksijde, Belgium, and will hope to return to strong form in time for that.
Latest reports from Belgium suggest that he has broken the trapezium bone in his left wrist and will wear a cast for at least two weeks.
The 25 year old is currently leading the Superprestiges series, having won in Ruddervoorde and Zonhoven. He was fourth in Hamme-Zogge two days ago, and currently has a total of 42 points, three more than Sven Nys.
His slender lead will certainly be threatened by today’s injury. With the Asper-Gavere and Gieten rounds coming in the next twelve days, his bad luck could well affect his chances of winning the overall series.
Albert was World Cup champion last season and won the world championships in 2009. He’s also a three time victor in the European championships, as well as the reigning Belgian title holder.